How good are you at listening?
This interactive quiz enables you to quickly compare your own listening behaviors
with behaviors normally thought to be associated with exceptionally good listening
skills. Indicate your response using the following scale:

4 = Always 3 = Most of the
time 2 = Some of the time 1
= Rarely

1.

I
remind myself that listening is an opportunity to learn something.

1
2
3
4

2.

I make
myself listen even when the subject fails to interest me.

1
2
3
4

3.

I make
myself listen even if I fear that the speaker is a moron.

1
2
3
4

4.

I focus
on the speaker's ideas and not on appearance or mannerisms.

1
2
3
4

5.

I try
to understand the speaker's feelings as well as his or her words.

1
2
3
4

6.

I wait
for the speaker to finish before forming an opinion.

1
2
3
4

7.

I make
sure I understand the speaker's point of view before responding.

1
2
3
4

8.

I show
that I am engaged by maintaining eye contact, nodding, and leaning forward.

1
2
3
4

9.

I am
relaxed, calm, and patient when listening.

1
2
3
4

10.

I do
not interrupt the speaker.

1
2
3
4

11.

I take
notes if I must remember points being made.

1
2
3
4

12.

I capitalize
on lag time by reviewing in my mind the speaker's main ideas.

1
2
3
4

13.

I ask
nonthreatening questions to ensure that I understand.

1
2
3
4

14.

I often
paraphrase what I hear to be sure I have heard it correctly.

1
2
3
4

15.

I do
not allow distractions to divert my attention.

1
2
3
4

Combined Totals:

How
do you rate?

50-60 Excellent! You have
exceptional listening skills.40-49 Above average,
but you could improve your skills.
30-39 Your score is promising, but you could greatly improve.
15-29 You need serious listening training.